In My Own Words: Tenisha Jones
In My Own Words: Tenisha Jones
Tenisha Jones, Project Director, Perspectives-Calumet Middle School/Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation (GADC) hosted a visit from Adolfo Carrion, Jr., Director of the White House Office on Urban Affairs, who said he hoped to replicate initiatives like the school’s Elev8 program. Tenisha shares her experience on the visit:
"Perspectives Calumet Middle School on October 30th hosted a visit from Adolfo Carrion, Jr., Director of White House Office on Urban Affairs. The highlight of the visit in my view was to hear from each partner in their area of expertise.
Perspectives Calumet Principal Tamara Davis spoke about the impact of Elev8 and how students have access to health services on site as a result of the newly constructed school-based health center. She noted that students are spending more time in school and parents are taking off less time from work for students who are sick. ACCESS' Nurse Practitioner Carol Wardlaw spoke about the variety of services offered at the health center, and Director of Strategic Partnerships, Jim Murphy spoke about the future of the health center being opened to the community for local residents to visit.
As the Elev8 Program Director I explained that Elev8 is a holistic approach to ensuring our middle school students are successful. I talked about all four components of Elev8, Extended-day, Health Center, Social Supports, and Parental engagement.
Carrion visited the Center for Working Families during his tour of the Auburn Gresham Community. GADC's Executive Director, Carlos Nelson spoke about the community partnerships.
The “it” of Elev8 was clearly defined, communicated, and understood. One of my favorite moments of his visit included our 6th graders warm welcome to Carrion during his tour of the school.
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